On March 5, four journalists in Kenya were violently attacked by police during a demonstration in Majengo following the death of a teenager. Reporters Without Borders condemned the actions and called for accountability. The alarming trend of violence against journalists in Kenya raises serious concerns about their safety while covering protests.
On March 5, four journalists were violently attacked by police while covering demonstrations in Majengo, a district in eastern Nairobi. The unrest stemmed from the previous evening’s events, during which a 17-year-old was killed by police. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemned these acts of aggression and urged Kenyan authorities to hold the responsible officers accountable.
The incidents occurred as the journalists from NTV prepared to return to their office. During the attack, police brutally assaulted Justine Ondieki, a photojournalist from Eastleigh Voice, while NTV camerawoman Leah Wambui Kurema was forcibly removed from her vehicle by an officer who demanded she delete footage of the assault. Additionally, Dennis Onsongo, another NTV photojournalist, was slapped while trying to assist his colleague, and Enos Teche from The Star was obstructed from documenting the event by a police officer threatening him with a baton.
National Police Service spokesman Muchiri Nyaga condemned the attacks, assuring that an investigation would identify the officers involved. RSF highlighted the unacceptable nature of these assaults and emphasized the ongoing danger journalists face while performing their duties in Kenya. Ondieki was reportedly detained for nearly five hours, during which he was severely beaten and suffered damage to his camera.
This incident forms part of a disturbing pattern of violence against journalists in Kenya. In August 2024, RSF reported multiple attacks, including an incident where a reporter was shot with rubber bullets while covering a protest. The organization continues to advocate for the safety and rights of media professionals in the country, pressing for effective action against such violations.
The violent treatment of journalists in Kenya during protests underscores the urgent need for improved protections for media professionals. RSF’s condemnation of recent incidents highlights the ongoing risks they face, and the call for accountability from the police is crucial to safeguard freedom of the press in the region. Continued vigilance and advocacy are necessary to ensure that journalists can carry out their essential work without fear of violence or retribution.
Original Source: rsf.org
